Accra: The Government has mandated the 261 Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) across the country to allocate 25 percent of their District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF) towards the establishment of 24-Hour model markets within their respective jurisdictions. This directive was announced by Mr. Ahmed Ibrahim, the Minister of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, on the floor of Parliament.

According to Ghana News Agency, the Minister outlined that these 24-Hour model markets are required to have essential facilities such as fire stations, police posts, fire hydrants, creches, and accessible routes to effectively manage emergency situations. This move is part of the government’s initiative to enhance safety and operational efficiency in market areas.

In response to inquiries about measures being implemented to prevent fire outbreaks in Kantamanto and Kwadaso markets located in Accra and Kumasi, respectively, the Minister stated that officials from the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) are working closely with the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS). Their collaboration aims to integrate fire safety elements like fire extinguishers and smoke detectors at Kantamanto market to ensure a rapid response to any potential fire incidents.

Furthermore, the AMA is partnering with the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) to perform regular assessments and thorough inspections of electrical systems. This partnership also includes conducting structural audits at the market to promptly identify and address any potential hazards.

Regarding the recent fire incident at the Kwadaso Wood Village Market, the Minister mentioned that the Ministry has directed the Kwadaso Municipal Assembly to present a redevelopment plan for the market. This plan is intended to facilitate efforts in redesigning and reconstructing the market to prevent future occurrences.